Communications and Marketing Manager
Job Description
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 12-month unaffiliated position. Other terms set by the Board of Education in accordance with the New London Public Schools Unaffiliated Staff Manual. Nights and weekends is required for this position.
PRIMARY FUNCTION: The Communications and Marketing Manager serves as the district's expert for communications, brand identity, and strategic marketing of the district. Each of these roles will be grounded in the specialized focus areas of the Magnet Office. While this is a non-supervisory specialist position, the Manager leads the district's communication function under the direction of the Director of Magnet and Superintendent.
TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
STRATEGIC MAGNET RECRUITMENT & BRANDING
Designs and executes an annual Magnet Recruitment Plan, using data analytics to identify trends, target demographics, and optimize the enrollment funnel. This will become a new part of the district's annual Improvement Plan.
Designs the "New London Public Schools" and "Magnet Pathways" new branding models, ensuring visual and narrative consistency across all platforms.
Executes high-impact advertising (including management of social media) to highlight the unique value propositions of the district's two magnet themes.
Acts as the primary content creator and strategist, producing high-quality assets for the district's website, apps, and social platforms (including short-form video and immersive content).
Leverages generative AI and automation tools to streamline content production, multi-language translation, and personalized messaging for a diverse community.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & PUBLIC RELATIONS
Collaborates directly with the Superintendent to draft and edit high-stakes communications, including Board reports (as assigned), advertisements, recruitment campaigns, and district-wide announcements, ensuring a professional and consistent "District Voice."
Serves as the primary point of contact for regional media; proactively pitches stories highlighting student success, district/school achievements, and manages the distribution of press releases.
Executes real-time, transparent communication during emergencies or inclement weather, utilizing multi-platform "push" notifications.
Builds functional alliances with local businesses, non-profits, and community partners to expand the district's reach.
SPECIALIZED OPERATIONAL SUPPORT
Provides expert training to school-based staff on communication tools, digital storytelling, social media etiquette, and website content management.
Leads district and school-based website administration, including content strategy, ongoing updates, accessibility compliance, user experience, and alignment with branding and communication standards.
Manages the marketing budget under the Director of Magnet; prepares quarterly reports on marketing spend and recruitment conversion rates.
Serves as the official spokesperson when designated and prepares district leaders for media appearances through coaching and talking point development.
Other duties as directed by the Director of Magnet, Assistant Superintendent, or Superintendent.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Data-Driven Strategy: Analyze recruitment metrics, website performance, and web analytics to proactively pivot marketing strategies in real time.
Inclusive Engagement: Design and execute communication strategies that resonate across linguistically and culturally diverse communities.
Digital Ecosystem Management: Manage a variety of communication platforms while leveraging digital design suites (Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva) to produce high-impact content.
Design and populate the district's Budget Book annually.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree or higher in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field.
Experience: 3+ years of professional experience in marketing, communications, or PR.
Technical Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of CRM/CMS systems and digital design software.
COMPENSATION: Salary and work year established by the Board of Education.